On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders that directly and negatively impact American working people, including SEIU 1021 members. These orders not only weaken workplace protections but also target immigrant workers and public sector employees, creating uncertainty for countless families.

Among the most concerning actions:

• Reinstating ‘Schedule F’ – Stripping federal employees of job protections, making it easier to fire workers without due process.
• Mandatory return to office – Eliminating telework options, increasing health risks, and disrupting work-life balance.
• Ending DEI programs – Rolling back workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, potentially increasing discrimination and bias.
• Federal hiring freeze – Leading to understaffing, heavier workloads, and reduced quality of public services.
• Increased ICE raids & immigration crackdowns – Targeting immigrant workers, many of whom are essential laborers in industries such as healthcare, public services, and hospitality. These actions create fear in workplaces and threaten job security for countless families.

Adding to these challenges, the Trump administration has also imposed a federal funding freeze, impacting public sector jobs, healthcare programs, and critical community services. For SEIU 1021 members, this could mean job insecurity, budget cuts in public programs, and financial instability for working families. Additionally, immigration enforcement efforts could further disrupt workplaces by threatening job security for mixed-status families and increasing stress for workers across industries.

In response to these growing challenges, SEIU 1021 members are focused on staying proactive, informed, and united. Alameda County Superior Court courtroom clerk Melisa Callender emphasizes the need for consistent communication to combat misinformation. “Keeping our members in the loop about political and financial developments is essential,” she explains. “Regular meetings, emails, and open discussions ensure we’re prepared for what’s ahead.”

Beyond staying informed, Callender stresses the power of active participation. “When we show up together—whether it’s for rallies, meetings, or strikes—we send a strong message: We’re united, we’re strong, and we’re not backing down from the fight for fair wages and workplace protections.” She also highlights the importance of organizing non-members, encouraging them to join the movement to amplify workers’ voices.

Education and community engagement remain key to union strength. Callender believes new members should have a solid foundation in labor history, union structure, and their rights. “The word ‘union’ means together. When members understand their collective power, they can advocate for change,” she says.

Additionally, she encourages deeper ties with local elected leaders, ensuring labor has a visible presence in the broader community. “By showing up at events and supporting our members’ families, we strengthen our movement for future generations.”

As SEIU 1021 continues to fight for workers’ rights amid new challenges, member input is key to strengthening our movement.

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